Matthew Davis, 39 and from North Parade, was found dead at the Bermuda Guest House in North Parade at around 5pm on Friday.

Now, after carrying out a post mortem, police have confirmed they are treating the death as murder.

Five men - aged 26, 27, 43, 51 and 65, have been arrested and are currently in police custody helping police with enquiries.

The men are being questioned on suspicion of murder.

The Bermuda Guest House (Image: Newcastle Chronicle)

DCI Shelley Hudson, who is leading the investigation for Northumbria Police, said: “Our inquiries have led us to believe Matthew was sadly murdered and we are treating his death as a murder investigation. We have arrested five men who are currently in custody and helping us with our enquiries.

“We have had a good response from the public so far however I am continuing to appeal for any witnesses and would like to hear from anyone who was in North Parade in the days leading up to Friday evening as they may have crucial information that can help with our inquiries.”

Police say extra officers will remain in the area as their inquiries continue, to offer reassurance to local residents and members of the public.

On Saturday we spoke to Connor Tilson, 21, who lives doors away from the guest house, is a distant relative of the man found dead.

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Steel worker Connor said: “The man is 39 and he is my mother’s cousin. Although he lived doors away, I didn’t really see him often or didn’t talk to him a lot. I work away so I hadn’t seen him for about a year. He had his fair share of problems, but there again, doesn’t everyone?

“He doesn’t work and I know the government pay for his accommodation. He was quite quiet and kept himself to himself. It’s really sad news to hear this about a relative, I was really shocked.”